International Naval Force Begins Patrolling Lebanese Coastline

The United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon says Israel has lifted it two-month-long sea blockade of the country.

The commander of the U.N. force said Israel Friday lifted the sea blockade as an international naval force began patrolling the Lebanese coastline.

Israel lifted its air blockade of Lebanon on Thursday.

Israel imposed the blockade at the start of its war against Hezbollah to prevent the guerrilla group from getting arms supplies from Iran through Syria. A U.N.-mandated ceasefire ended the war last month.

In other developments, Israeli media say Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has indicated he would be prepared to discuss the status of the disputed Shebaa Farms region if Lebanon disarms Hezbollah and fulfills its obligations under U.N. resolutions (1701 and 1559).